The word over at informationweek is that AT&T is trying to entice developers by enabling them to test apps easier and also to receive feedback on their applications before they are released to the public.
The program is known as Apps Beta and has been designed to be an “incubator” for mobile programs which will probably be sold via carrier portals, and towards smartphones without such dedicated app outlets like the Apple iTunes App Store.
Mobile applications are becoming an increasingly important area of the mobile experience. A typical trial program will last between 4 and 6 weeks whereby developers can interact with early adopters and the community to gain valuable insight.